Nur Aisyah Syahirah is Champion of Malaysia’s 24th “Chinese Bridge” Competition

By, Nur Farrah Atiqah Amran

Nur Aisyah Syahirah Anuar, a second-year Bachelor of Arts in English for International Communication student from IIUM Pagoh, emerged as the champion of the 24th “Chinese Bridge” Chinese Proficiency Competition for University Students. The national-level event was held on 18 May at the Research Management & Innovation Complex (KPPI), University of Malaya.

Aisyah outshone 24 participants from 11 universities across Malaysia in the highly competitive event, which was hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Malaysia and organised by the Kong Zi Institute of University of Malaya. Also representing IIUM Pagoh was Muhammad Zulfahmi Suhaimi, a third-year Bachelor of Arts in Malay for International Communication student, who secured an impressive fourth place, further highlighting the university’s strong presence and performance in the prestigious competition.

As the national champion, Aisyah will go on to represent Malaysia in the global finals in China, continuing to pursue her Chinese dream while proudly showcasing the talent, grace, and cultural openness of Malaysian youth on the international stage. This year’s competition carried the theme, “One World, One Family” and comprised four segments: a quiz on Chinese culture, prepared speech, talent performance, and impromptu speech. Contestants impressed the judges with their linguistic abilities, cultural insight, and stage presence.

Throughout the competition, participants shared heartfelt accounts of their journeys in learning Chinese, memorable cultural exchanges in China, and how mastering the language enabled them to cross cultural and linguistic boundaries. Speeches centered on themes, “Chinese Brings the World Closer” and “Crossing Cultural Bridges,” reflecting a deep appreciation of Chinese culture and a spirit of inclusivity and mutual respect among the youth of today.

Aisyah’s achievement is a proud moment for IIUM Pagoh and a testament to the university’s commitment to nurturing globally minded, multilingual graduates. Her achievement, alongside Zulfahmi’s strong performance, serves as an inspiration for students nationwide to embrace linguistic and cultural diversity as a bridge to global understanding.***